An enlarged pancreas can happen for several reasons. The pancreas is a big gland, sitting behind the stomach in the upper abdomen and aid in the digestion process. It creates enzymes into the small intestine to help digest food. The pancreas also produces glucagon and insulin in the bloodstream to help the body to regulate the food effectively for energy. Pancreatitis happens when digestive enzymes get overactive in the pancreas, causing damage to its tissues. This can be a reason for an enlarged pancreas. However, a few more causes and symptoms of the enlarged pancreas are mentioned below.
Causes
Chronic pancreatitis
Heredity, excessive alcohol consumption, cystic fibrosis, increased levels of fats and calcium in the blood, and some particular medicines are some causes of chronic pancreatitis. In such conditions, the swelling goes worse with time and can lead the pancreas to permanent damage. It is vital for the patients to consult the best pancreas specialist in Delhi, Mumbai or any city to start the treatment immediately.
Acute pancreatitis
In cases of acute pancreatitis, inflammation occurs suddenly in the pancreas. It can be a severe condition but can be treated within a few months of medication. Gallstones and alcohol consumption are two major causes of acute pancreatitis. Some other causes may include infections, certain drugs, extreme levels of fats in the blood, and some specific medical procedures.
Pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer happens due to atypical cell expansion in the pancreas, gradually spreading to other parts in the body, if left untreated.
Abscess
An abscess is a pus-filled hole, generally happens due to bacterial infectivity. A pancreatic pseudocyst that gets infected can develop into an abscess.
Symptoms of the enlarged pancreas
People with an enlarged pancreas may feel pain in the upper part of the abdomen which is the most common symptom. However, some other symptoms may include the following:
- Weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Jaundice
- Diarrhoea or oily stools
- Rapid pulse
On experiencing such symptoms, patients must instantly consult a specialist to find the right treatment. They need to contact the best pancreas specialist in Delhi, Mumbai, or any other city to start getting treatment on time.
